E556 - Silicate alumino-calcique

Origin

Calcium aluminium silicate is a synthetic amorphous aluminosilicate. It's produced by reacting soluble silicate with calcium and aluminium salts under controlled conditions. The resulting precipitate is then filtered, washed, and dried. It is not found naturally.

Usage

Calcium aluminium silicate is used as an anti-caking agent in various food products, particularly in powdered or granular foods. It prevents clumping and ensures free flow of the product. Common applications include table salt, powdered milk, spices, baking powder, and instant coffee. The additive works by absorbing moisture and preventing the formation of bridges between particles. The typical usage levels are kept low, usually below 2% of the food product's weight. It is also used in some pharmaceutical applications as an excipient.

Side Effects

Calcium aluminium silicate is generally considered safe for consumption at the levels typically used in food. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 'not specified', meaning that, based on available data, the total dietary intake of the substance arising from its use at the levels necessary to achieve the desired technological effect does not represent a hazard to health. Some individuals might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in very large quantities, but this is rare. No significant adverse effects have been reported in scientific literature at normal consumption levels. Regulatory bodies like the EFSA and FDA have reviewed its safety and approved its use within specified limits.